On our drives to and from different hunting spots, my dad and I have lots of time to talk. Sometimes we're serious and other times we're just
goofy. And every once in a while I just want him to pipe down so I can take a nap. But no matter what, I always love riding around with my
dad. Those times when we're serious, he's taught me lots of stuff....not just about hunting....about friends and school and God and life in
general. He's told me lots of stories from his life, some I've heard so many times I could tell them myself, word for word. And even though
sometimes I feel like saying "Blah, Blah, Blah, Dad...You've told me this a hundred times", I just keep my mouth shut because I know he
tells me this stuff over and over again so I won't forget and maybe I'll even learn a thing or two......
Always ask and have permission to hunt on the owner's land.
Respect the owner's property.
Leave gates how you found them.
My dad tells a story about a rancher he knows in Wyoming who had a bunch of cattle. Some hunters
came and thought they'd close a gate that was left open. All the cows died because they couldn't get
to water....some dumb hunter closed a gate. Sad! LEAVE THE GATES HOW YOU FOUND THEM!
Shoot across property lines.
If you are on Farmer Dan's land and you see a humongous hog on Rancher Rick's land, DON'T SHOOT IT!
Unless you have permission to hunt on Rancher Rick's land too.
Cross a fence with a loaded gun.
Too many bad things could happen, like....the gun could get snagged on a barb and accidently go off,
shooting you or someone you're with. It's better to have your grown-up hold your gun while you cross
then you can hold their gun while they come across. Or, if it's dry outside, you can lay your gun down
on the ground while you cross. A smart kid is a safe kid!
Make sure you have the right ammo for your gun.
If it's not the right stuff, there could be explosions and a gun could blow up in your face!
Ever be a poacher!
Know the seasons for all the animals. There are big $ fines and maybe even jail time for poachers. There
is a reason for each of the hunting seasons so FOLLOW THE LAW.
Always be nice and polite to everyone you meet.
Always call the rancher "Sir". Be respectful of other hunters that you meet while you're out, don't get in their
way or make a bunch of noise.
Knock on the door or make a phone call, but make sure it's okay.
Don't leave any trash around or target shoot at trees or any other stuff like that.